OLYMPIA - Someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease every 65 seconds. In Washington state, more than 110,000 people live with Alzheimer’s or other dementia.
“For many, and for too long, such a diagnosis has meant fear, shame and social isolation,” said DSHS Dementia Care Program Manager Lynne Korte. “But there’s a new dementia story being told — a story of connection, purpose and courage.”
That story will be on display at a special photo exhibit at the State Capitol Tuesday. “Picturing a New Dementia Story” will feature people living well with Alzheimer’s. The photos portray people with dementia who are actively engaged in programs that bring them together for walking, gardening, dance and creative pursuits in the arts and theater.
What: Picturing a New Dementia Story
When: February 19, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Washington State Capitol building, third floor mezzanine
This exhibit combines two Washington state collections: “Living Your Best Life” and “Living with Memory Loss: In Our Own Words.” They serve as a reminder that people with memory loss remain a vital part of the community and deserve the opportunity to stay engaged.
The photo exhibit is hosted by Washington State’s Dementia Action Collaborative (DAC), a public-private partnership working to implement the Washington State Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias.
“We are determined to continue to work toward a world in which people with dementia and their loved ones experience the respect, support and inclusion they deserve,” said Korte.
Even if they cannot attend, members of the public can still get involved in raising awareness, challenging stigma and building dementia-friendly communities:
- Learn about the DAC and/or download a Dementia Friendly Communities fact sheet.
- Receive DAC updates on networking and learning opportunities for people interested in building dementia-friendly communities by emailing dementiafriendlywa@gmail.com.